The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) are pushing for an additional Php 4 billion in funding for 2027.
The request comes on top of a proposed combined allocation of about Php 11.616 billion for the two agencies under the 2027 national budget.
What the Agencies Are Asking For
During a Senate Committee on Finance budget hearing on September 21, DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac appealed for an extra Php 2 billion for the department. Of that amount, Php 1 billion would go to the AKSYON Fund — the agency’s emergency support fund for OFWs who need legal, medical, financial, humanitarian, or repatriation assistance.
OWWA also requested an additional Php 2 billion for its own programs.
The appeal comes as government agencies continue preparing for emergencies affecting Filipinos overseas, including security concerns in the Middle East.
Senators Voice Support
Lawmakers at the hearing backed calls for stronger funding for both agencies. Senators discussed adding resources for emergency assistance, legal help, medical support, and repatriation services for OFWs and their families.
Senate Committee on Finance Chairperson Senator JV Ejercito, along with Senators Joel Villanueva, Erwin Tulfo, Raffy Tulfo, and Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, underscored the need for robust funding to protect migrant workers.
Why It Matters for OFWs in Kuwait
For Filipino workers in the Gulf, funds like the AKSYON Fund often serve as a safety net during difficult moments. The fund has previously helped workers facing employer complaints, unpaid wages, legal cases, interrupted employment, and emergency return to the Philippines.
If approved, the additional funding could help maintain services many OFWs rely on, including:
- Legal aid during job disputes
- Medical assistance in emergencies
- Repatriation and evacuation support
- Crisis response during unrest or instability
For those who ever face a sudden emergency abroad, knowing this support exists can bring real peace of mind.
What Happens Next
The support shown by senators is encouraging, but the requested increase is not yet final. The 2027 national budget must still go through further congressional deliberations before the final amounts are approved.
For now, OFWs in Kuwait can watch for official updates from the DMW and OWWA to stay informed about available programs and how to access help when they need it.